Chinese New Year in Edinburgh 2025

Edinburgh hosts an impressive Chinese New Year celebration annually between late January and late February, offering a vibrant array of cultural events and entertainment. The festivities feature captivating art installations, live concerts, scenic walking trails, and a variety of interactive activities, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the richness of Chinese culture against the city's historic backdrop.

Edinburgh Chinese New Year Festival (February 2025, TBA)

Edinburgh's Chinese New Year Festival is a vibrant celebration that weaves together a rich tapestry of events and activities across the city. Each year, universities, museums, cultural institutions, businesses, and hotels collaborate to create a dynamic program that highlights both traditional and contemporary aspects of Chinese culture. While the lineup varies annually, visitors can always expect breathtaking Chinese lantern displays, thrilling dragon and lion dances, and an array of engaging activities. Highlights often include Chinese New Year concerts, tai chi sessions, bilingual ceilidhs, calligraphy workshops, and even tarot card readings, making it an unforgettable experience for all who attend.

The Mound Chinese New Year Celebration (January 25, 2025)

A special cultural event themed around traditional Chinese New Year celebrations will take place at the Mound Precinct, adjacent to the Scottish National Gallery, from noon to 2 pm. The program includes captivating performances such as lion and dragon dances, lantern and fan dances, Chinese folk music, children's dance, and a ceilidh with opportunities for audience participation. Guests can also enjoy Chinese calligraphy, red envelope games, and insightful commentary on the traditions, history, and significance of Chinese New Year. This free event, open to the public, offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the richness of Chinese culture.

Chinese New Year Light Show at Edinburgh Castle (February 2025, TBA)

Don't miss the sight of the gorgeous Edinburgh Castle, which is decked out in red to mark the Chinese New Year! The dazzling light show celebrating the Lunar New Year on the walls of the city's most magnificent monument promises you a one-of-a-kind experience.

Chinese New Year Gala Concert (February 2025, TBA)

The Chinese New Year Concert at Usher Hall is a standout highlight of Edinburgh's festive celebrations. This official gala concert typically features the Edinburgh Symphony Orchestra alongside talented Chinese performers, such as the Guizhou Song and Dance Troupe, Qingdao Opera House Symphony Orchestra, or the Chinese Children's Orchestra. Blending the best of Scottish and Chinese traditions, the event showcases spirited Highland dancing, the dramatic flair of Peking Opera, and the elegance of the Edinburgh Symphony Orchestra. Tickets range between £10 and £20, with concessions available, offering an unforgettable evening of cultural fusion and world-class performances.

Concert at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (February 2025, TBA)

The Royal Botanic Garden and Edinburgh Zoo often host special events dedicated to the most important Chinese celebration. The Great Lanterns of China exhibit at Edinburgh Zoo, featuring giant illuminated Chinese and Scottish mythical creatures, has been drawing rather large crowds.